As we move into December, Victoria ISD is focusing on a value that feels especially fitting for this time of year: Gratitude. Defined simply, gratitude is the act of appreciating the people, experiences, and opportunities in our lives. In schools, it takes on an even deeper meaning. Gratitude is a mindset, a skill, and a habit that helps students build resilience, strengthen relationships, and recognize the good in themselves and others.
This season naturally invites us to pause and reflect on what we’re thankful for. At VISD, we are grateful every day for the dedication of our staff, the curiosity and determination of our students, the support of our families, and the partnership of our community. These groups form the foundation of who we are as a district, and their contributions make it possible for our students to learn, grow, and thrive.
Throughout December, campuses across VISD are incorporating gratitude into daily lessons, classroom discussions, and campuswide activities as part of our districtwide VISD Values work. While activities look different by grade level, they all share the same purpose: helping students recognize that gratitude is more than a feeling. It is a choice we can practice and a habit that can guide us throughout the year.
Elementary Schools: Building the Basics of Thankfulness
Elementary classrooms are approaching gratitude in ways that are developmentally meaningful and hands-on for younger learners. Students are exploring what it means to recognize the good around them and why expressing thanks can strengthen friendships and improve their own sense of well-being. Some activities include:
Students will move around the room to find a partner. With their partner, they will share what they are grateful for by sharing their skills, talents, and other characteristics.
Students strive to find things to be thankful for each day and look for the good in who we are.
Quote for discussion. “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”
These activities help students understand that gratitude isn’t limited to holidays or big events. It can be practiced in everyday moments, like noticing a classmate’s kindness, recognizing help from a teacher, or appreciating time with family.
Middle Schools: Connecting Gratitude to Identity and Relationships
At the middle school level, students are digging deeper to understand how gratitude relates to emotional awareness, empathy, and personal responsibility. They are beginning to see how expressing appreciation can strengthen relationships and support a positive school culture.
What are some of the benefits of gratitude (improved relationships, more happiness, less sadness, better sleep, increased empathy, fortitude, and resilience)
Think of a person who has made your life easier, better, or safer in some way. Take a minute to show your gratitude with a note, text, call, or social post.
These conversations help students understand the role gratitude plays in shaping who they are, becoming thoughtful, responsible, and empathetic young people.
High Schools: Recognizing Gratitude as a Leadership Skill
At the high school level, students are connecting gratitude to leadership, service, and community engagement. Older students are examining how expressing genuine appreciation can strengthen teams, improve communication, and build trust — skills essential for college, career, and life.
Some days are just hard. Make a list of things to be grateful for, even the simplest things.
Class discussion about the positive qualities we each have and are grateful to have. When we know and share, we can make the world a better place.
Imagine someone who has made a significant impact on your life. Write a heartfelt note of gratitude to this person. Thank them for their kindness, support, or influence. Describe how they have affected your life. What actions or words have they shared that meant the most to you? How can you carry their positive impact forward in your own life to share with others?
One teacher shared how meaningful these conversations have become.
Brianna Sturm, West High School English Teacher, said, ”My students have been engaged every time I present one of the citizenship lessons. It helps the class bond together and develop those positive relationships that benefit the overall classroom culture. It also allows them to get perspectives from their peers, which grows their open mindset. Last week's lesson on gratitude brought up how a lot of students are grateful for family members, teachers, and even their friends through how they collaborated with each other and by writing "Thank You notes" to those special people in their lives.”
As we celebrate Gratitude throughout December, we hope that students of all ages learn to carry this value with them long after the season ends. Gratitude helps us see the good, strengthens our connections, and reminds us that we are part of something larger than ourselves.
At VISD, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve our students and community. Thank you to our staff, families, and community partners for everything you do to support excellence in our schools this month and every month.